If you're planning a trip to or from London and are concerned about the ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) charge, you're not alone. Understanding the ULEZ regulations is crucial for travellers—especially those flying in or out of its major airports, including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, London City, and Southend Airports
We've broken down everything you need to know about the ULEZ charge at London airports, ensuring you can travel smoothly without any unexpected fees. Before you book your tickets, read on to discover if you'll need to pay the ULEZ charge and how to navigate the rules effortlessly!
What is the London ULEZ charge?
On August 29, 2023, London expanded its Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) charge to cover all of Greater London. If your vehicle doesn't meet the emissions standards, you'll face a daily fee of £12.50. This charge kicks in 24/7—yep, even on Christmas Day. It was introduced to help tackle air pollution and make London’s air cleaner for everyone.
What vehicles are non-compliant?
Here’s how you can avoid paying the daily ULEZ charge:
- Petrol cars must meet Euro 4 emissions standards. Generally, petrol cars registered after January 2006 are compliant.
- Diesel cars must meet Euro 6 emissions standards, meaning most diesel cars registered after September 2015 are compliant.
- Hybrid cars and mild hybrids also need to meet Euro 4 or Euro 6 standards, depending on the fuel type.
- Fully electric cars are exempt from the ULEZ charge.
Check if your car is ULEZ-compliant
Use Regit's ULEZ checker to see if your vehicle meets the standards or if you need to pay the charge.
Will I have to pay the ULEZ at London airports?
Here’s a breakdown of the ULEZ situation for each of the major London airports:
Is London Heathrow (LHR) within London's ULEZ?
Yes, Heathrow falls within Greater London and the ULEZ. If your car is non-compliant, you’ll need to pay £12.50 both when you arrive and leave the airport if it’s on separate days.
If you’re parking on-site, you’ll pay the charge both when you drive to the car park and again when you return to pick up your vehicle.
Is London Gatwick (LGW) within London's ULEZ?
No, Gatwick is outside the ULEZ zone, so you won’t have to pay the charge unless you’re driving through the zone to get there.
Is London Stansted (STN) within London's ULEZ?
No, Stansted is about 20 miles outside the ULEZ area, so there’s no need to worry about the charge.
Is London Luton (LTN) within London's ULEZ?
No, Luton is also outside the ULEZ zone, so you won’t be affected by the charge unless you travel through the ULEZ zone to get there.
Is London City (LCY) within London's ULEZ?
Yes, London City Airport is within the ULEZ zone, so if you’re driving a non-compliant car, you’ll need to pay the charge. You could also face the Congestion Charge if you drive through central London.
Is London Southend (SEN) within London's ULEZ?
No, Southend is 25 miles outside of the M25 and the ULEZ zone, so you’re in the clear.
Additional charges at each airport:
- Heathrow: £5 drop-off fee at all terminals.
- Gatwick: £5 for 10 minutes drop-off, with extra charges for longer stays.
- Stansted: £7 for up to 15 minutes drop-off.
- Luton: Free parking for up to 15 minutes in the mid-stay lot, with £5 for closer drop-off zones.
- London City: £3.80 for 10 minutes parking.
- Southend: £5 for 10 minutes parking.
Plan ahead to avoid unexpected costs during your trip!
